The transformation from vandal-hit derelict gym building to Wolverhampton’s hottest new leisure attraction has taken months to complete.

But now the doors have finally opened to AMF’s new £2.5million state-of-the-art bowling alley at Bentley Bridge, Wednesfield, which comes complete with 22 computerised lanes along with a cafe bar and amusement arcade. Neon lighting, silver baubles and hot pink walls await visitors – meaning days of the site hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons are now firmly in the past. 

The attraction will also host X-treme bowling nights, when ultra-violet lights will illuminate the lanes, bowling balls will glow in the dark and lights will “dance” in time with music.

Organisers put on a colourful show to mark the opening of the new bowling alley yesterday, which included star guest Chris Iwelumo from Wolves who signed autographs and tried his hand at bowling.

Formerly the £3 million Healthland gym with two swimming pools, the building closed two-and-a-half years ago with the loss of 50 jobs before falling into a state of disrepair. But now, the 26,000 sq ft venue is getting ready to roll into a bright new future, bringing 40 jobs with it.